In a seismic shift in Bihar’s political landscape, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has announced his decision to contest for a Rajya Sabha seat, drawing sharp criticism from Congress leaders who label it a blatant betrayal of the people’s mandate. The veteran leader, who has helmed Bihar for nearly two decades, assured full support to the incoming government while expressing his long-held desire to serve in Parliament’s upper house.
Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh took to X, formerly Twitter, to voice his outrage. ‘What the Indian National Congress repeatedly warned during the Bihar election campaign has now come true,’ he posted. ‘A conspiracy hatched by ‘G2′ has led to a coup in Bihar, seizing power. This is a massive betrayal of the people’s mandate in many ways.’ Ramesh’s remarks underscore the Congress’s narrative of political maneuvering undermining democratic verdicts.
The backlash extends beyond Congress. RJD spokesperson Kanchana Yadav accused the BJP of installing ‘brokers’ in JD(U)’s top positions, now allegedly selling the chief ministership to the BJP. Independent MP Pappu Yadav from Purnia urged unity among opposition leaders—Manhjhi, Chirag, Lalu, and Upendra—to back Nishant Kumar as CM unconditionally, slamming the door on BJP’s influence in Bihar.
Nitish Kumar, sworn in as Bihar’s CM for the 10th time in 2025, has been the state’s longest-serving leader. His move to Rajya Sabha after 21 years marks a rare transition. Posting on X, he reflected, ‘Since starting my parliamentary life, I’ve wished to serve in both houses of Bihar’s legislature and Parliament. I’m now seeking a Rajya Sabha seat in the upcoming elections.’
This development raises questions about Bihar’s future governance and alliance dynamics. As Kumar steps back from daily administration, allies and rivals alike are recalibrating strategies ahead of what promises to be a contentious political phase. Observers note that while Kumar’s legacy in stabilizing Bihar is undisputed, this shift could reshape the opposition’s fight against the NDA.